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Potomac Riverwatch: Winter 2026

NEWS

Massive sewage spill near Glen Echo, MD--A 6‑foot sewer line known as the Potomac Interceptor ruptured, releasing tens of millions of gallons of raw sewage per day into the river. Waterkeepers have recorded unsafe E. coli levels downstream toward Arlington and D.C. Details

E. coli levels thousands of times above safe limits--Testing near Lockhouse 10 on the C&O Canal revealed contamination far beyond safe human‑contact thresholds, with environmental groups warning that the impact is worse than initially believed. Details

DC Water emergency response-- DC Water crews are working to divert sewage into a dry section of the C&O Canal using pumps and temporary bypass systems. Officials warn that winter storms could complicate containment. Details

Environmental impact and regional concerns-- Environmental groups describe the spill as a regional catastrophe, noting the pipeline’s age and long‑known deterioration issues. Details

One‑year lookback at Potomac midair collision-- While not directly tied to the spill, recent coverage revisits the 2025 midair collision over the Potomac near Reagan National Airport, highlighting ongoing aviation‑safety concerns. Details

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